Dear Editor

The close down signs up outside House of Fraser (Standard November 1) mark the end of the ill-fated 'shared space' experiment, but at the same time the building could gain new use such as a local food market or even a clothes bazaar.

Ideas for bringing the buzz back into the Square itself abound. Sorting out the traffic system, and restoring signal crossings and pavement kerbs would mean shoppers can cross in safety again, and that essential business traffic can find its way around the centre.

Moving the bus station into Market Place itself, much nearer to the main shopping streets, and with attractive bus shelters and raised boarding platforms might also help bring life back.

The Town Council has failed with its own scheme and, despite protests and needless accidents, allowed itself to be led into a senseless redesign. Will the new Leader of Cotswold District Council, when elected, make it the District's first priority to get Market Place transformed to be the jewel in Cirencester's crown?

Peter Monk MRTPI

Newnham